Georgia Lawmakers Move to Cut Surprise Ambulance Bills

New legislation aims to require insurers to bill customers the same whether ambulance is in-network or not

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Georgia House has approved a bill, HB 961, that would require insurers to bill customers the same for ambulance rides regardless of whether the ambulance service is in-network or out-of-network. The bill also establishes minimum reimbursement rates for out-of-network ambulance providers. The legislation was introduced after a constituent complained about a $4,500 charge for a 10-mile ambulance ride.

Why it matters

Surprise medical bills for ambulance rides have been a growing concern, with some patients facing exorbitant charges even when they have insurance coverage. This legislation aims to protect consumers from these unexpected costs and ensure more predictable and fair billing practices by insurers.

The details

HB 961 would require insurers to bill their customers the same amount whether the ambulance service is in-network or out-of-network. The bill also establishes minimum reimbursement rates for out-of-network ambulance providers, either by contract or by setting them at 300% of Medicare reimbursement rates. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Alan Powell, R-Hartwell, after a constituent complained about a $4,500 charge for a 10-mile ambulance ride.

  • The Georgia House approved HB 961 on March 5, 2026.

The players

Rep. Alan Powell

The Republican representative from Hartwell, Georgia who introduced HB 961 to address surprise ambulance billing.

Rep. Don Parsons

The Republican representative from Marietta, Georgia who said the Legislature should investigate the underlying costs of ambulance services.

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What they’re saying

“'If I have a heart attack, I'm not going to negotiate. Get me to the hospital quick!'”

— Rep. Alan Powell (thegeorgiasun.com)

What’s next

The bill now heads to the Georgia Senate for consideration.

The takeaway

This legislation aims to protect Georgia consumers from surprise ambulance bills by requiring insurers to charge the same rates regardless of whether the ambulance service is in-network or out-of-network. It's a step toward more transparent and fair medical billing practices in the state.